Gender disparity in COVID-19: Role of sex steroid hormones
Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine
;
(12): 5-9, 2021.
Article
in English
| WPRIM
| ID: wpr-880934
ABSTRACT
The emerging pandemic of COVID-19 caused by the novel pathogenic human coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has caused significant morbidity and mortality across the globe, prompting the scientific world to search for preventive measures to interrupt the disease process. Demographic data indicates gender-based differences in COVID-19 morbidity with better outcome amongst females. Disparity in sex-dependent morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients may be attributed to difference in levels of sex steroid hormones -androgens and estrogens. Evidence suggests that apart from the regulation of viral host factors, immunomodulatory and cardioprotective roles exerted by estrogen and progesterone may provide protection to females against COVID-19. Exploring the underlying mechanisms and beneficial effects of these hormones as an adjuvant to existing therapy may be a step towards improving the outcomes. This article aims to review studies demonstrating the role of sex steroidal hormones in modulating SARS-CoV-2 host factors and summarize plausible biological reasons for sex-based differences seen in COVID-19 mortality.
Full text:
Available
Index:
WPRIM (Western Pacific)
Language:
English
Journal:
Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine
Year:
2021
Type:
Article
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